The Liquor Stores Association of Western Australia has applauded the State Government’s move to fast track the roll out of a Banned Drinkers Register trial in Carnarvon.
Several community issues around drug and alcohol related violence and escalating youth crime have surfaced in recent weeks. Throughout this period, the LSA and other industry bodies have been collaborating with local police and licensees to find practical solutions and outcomes for the benefit of the whole community.
With that in mind, the LSA welcomes moves to introduce a register in the town and the associated steps to bolster the legislation for the BDR in the relevant jurisdictions where it currently operates, such as the Kimberley, Pilbara and Goldfields.
Under a BDR, licensees must scan the ID of a customer before any purchase of take-away alcohol can be made. If no photo ID is presented, no transaction can be made by the licensee.
The Association is also pleased that under the looming legislation, individuals will be placed on the register for alcohol-related violence and drink driving, not just in or near licensed premises.
It also welcomes the ability for health professionals and specialist frontline staff to refer individuals to be placed on the register.
LSA WA CEO Peter Peck said a BDR trial for Carnarvon, coupled with tougher legislation, was the best move going forward.
“The is a game changer especially around online purchases where people will be vetted through the BDR. This will close a loophole and hopefully lead to a reduction in anti-social behaviour” he said.
“It’s a great outcome for the industry and the community at large. Our members and other industry partners want to work together to get the results needed to bring calm back to the community” he added.
“This is a common sense approach, to combat problem drinkers and ensure licensees are fulfilling their community obligations while at the same time, they are ensuring they have a sustainable industry to operate in”.